Monthly Archives:November 2012

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Part 15 – “Route 66” (A message from each of the 66 books of the Bible)Ezra 1; 1 Timothy 2:1-8The Book of Ezra reveals that the Lord, being sovereign over all kingdoms, moved the heart of unbelieving Cyrus to fulfill God’s will. God also stirred the hearts of His people to respond and return to the Promised Land. Today, we should pray to God on behalf of unbelieving rulers so that political circumstances may become favorable for the message of the gospel . . . and the living of its commands.

Part 13 – “Route 66” (A series with a message from each of the 66 books of the Bible)1 Chronicles 17The books of Chronicles, written to God’s weary people returning from exile, present a reason for hope in the Lord. In spite of all the faults of the kings from David’s line (including David himself), God will not renege on His promises to David. We too can take courage that God will fulfill His unconditional promises toward us . . . in spite of our sins. This shows the magnitude of God’s grace.

I remember in the 2008 election when Barack Obama conducted his world tour as part of his presidential campaign, he visited the Western Wall in Jerusalem. You may remember that he inserted a prayer in the wall. The Jews consider this a sacred act—even if the individual represents another faith.

(Photo: Paul J. Richards / AFP – Getty Images)

After Obama left the Western Wall Plaza, someone scrabbled out the prayer—written on King David Hotel stationary—and took a picture of it.

Local schoolchildren ate their lunches across the olive grove from my wife and me.

Like the kids, we came on a field trip to explore ancient Shiloh. Although our lunch was hardly a feast, it reminded me of the reasons the young nation of Israel initially came to this site. They came to worship at the annual feasts before the Tabernacle at Shiloh.

I was only 3 years old on August 3, 1970, but my memories are vivid. We sat in the hallway in the middle of the house, closed all the doors, and I ate animal crackers while my stepdad played the guitar.

All the while, I heard what sounded like freight trains encircling outside our house.

UPCOMING EVENTS

WAYNE STILES
Hi, my name is Wayne Stiles, and I love connecting the Bible and its lands to life. This is my personal blog where that happens. My goal is to deliver practical content to encourage you in your relationship with God. I believe that a life lived well needs a growing and intentional connection with God through Jesus Christ. I write on the devotional life, Bible lands, understanding the Bible, and resources I have found helpful on these topics.